Malaysia: Speed dating event approved as ‘halal’ for Muslims

Majudi attends Halal Speed Dating, a matchmaking event, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia October 3, 2015. Halal Speed Dating, a new matchmaking event in Kuala Lumpur, is helping Malaysian Muslims find partners in a largely conservative society where courtship is frowned upon and marriages are often arranged. REUTERS/Olivia Harris

SHAFAQNA – A matchmaking event in Kuala Lumpur, ‘Halal Speed Dating’, is helping Muslims find marriage partners within the bounds of Islamic law. The event works around the concept of letting two interested people meet, however the women have to be accompanied by a guardian throughout the encounters.

According to the event founders, clients can shortlist up to three people, however marriage can only be negotiated by one possible partner at a time. Speaking of the dating app, Tinder, HalalSpeed Dating co-founders Zuhri Yuhyi, 34, and Norhayati Ismail, 41, said: “Halal Speed Dating is the anti-Tinder. Instead of casual hookups, Halal Speed Dating is about dignified and chaperoned meet-ups with the intention of marriage. In fact, we do not condone the modern dating that is commonly practiced.”

According to Norhayati, most common dating apps and matchmaking websites often lead to adultery prior to marriage, which is forbidden in Islam. “I can tell people are looking for something new,” said Norhayati, as reported in The Express Tribune, who noted that the event is attracting interest from people of all religions.

“I brought my parents as they are the best people who can guide me to find someone. I’m focusing on finding someone who can willingly accept me for who I am,” said Nurnadille Edlena, 24, who participated in the bi-annual matchmaking event in Kuala Lumpur. The get together was first introduced in May and registered a participation of nearly 80 people. The second round held at the end of September attracted some 60 participants.